Adrienne is currently bobbing around out in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, doing the kind of research that will help save the world or something. Me? I am sticking around on the homefront, making sure the garden and cat stay alive. But I figured the greenery and the black fuzzball could survive at least one night alone, so I road tripped down to Oregon to see old friends and do a bit of tasting in the Willamette Valley.
This trip turned out to be an extra special treat. I drove all over the backroads of wine country, much of which I had not seen before. The Willamette was simply stunning - quiet roads, green rolling hills, oaks, vineyards, and wildflowers galore. I got to visit some winery old favorites, discovered some new ones, and went to one that's been long on my list. Ah, the life.
But the real reason I made the 4+ hour trek was to see old friends in Corvallis. My old COMPASS crew and friends are an extra special lot who we see far to seldom. The time was short, but we squeezed in a hike, a dinner party, lots of catching up and drinking, and even shot off half-dozen fireworks. It was an absolute ball.
The only thing missing was my lady friend - but perhaps a tasting trip in the fall will be in order, and another check in on all the Corvallis crew.
Karen and Kirsten leading the troops.
The craggy old oaks on Bald Hill are my favorite - something I miss living this far north.
Sadie lookin like a black little fox. Actually, looks like Wiesty.
Me and my 'ol buddy, Finn.
The crew at Cindy and Michael's house.
Crinders and John!
Everyone around the dinner table - what a great shindig!
Michael the pyro
Kirsten, the birthday girl!
John and Lizzy!
The stunningly beautiful Willamette Valley.
Our friend's amazingly beautiful farm and winery, Big Table Farm.
Tasting the goods at Big Table Farm
The farmer at Big Table Farm - Clare Carver!
My happy place....
